The Sabres have some potential free agent targets from the Panthers worth considering.
The Buffalo Sabres will play their second-to-last game of the season this evening (April 13) against the Florida Panthers. With the Sabres officially out of the playoff race, this game holds little importance for the club.
However, after another poor season, the Sabres' primary focus should be their potential offseason moves. Regarding free agency, the Florida Panthers have some interesting players who could grab the attention of the Sabres this offseason if they hit the market. Let's discuss each of them now.
Sam Reinhart
Wishful thinking, but how amazing would it be for the Sabres to bring back Sam Reinhart? The former Sabres star has had a remarkable season with the Cats, posting new career highs with 54 goals and 91 points in 80 games. He is setting himself up for a big payday for his next deal, and at this juncture, he has yet to get an extension from the Panthers.
Sam ReinhartThe Sabres are entering the summer with a plethora of cap space and could give Reinhart the big deal he is looking for. He would give their top six a monstrous boost if signed and could be the star they need to finally break their 13-year playoff drought. As a result, if he hits the market, Buffalo would be silly not to send him an offer.
Anthony Stolarz
The Sabres would be wise to bring in a stop-gap goalie this offseason. It would allow Devon Levi a bit more time to develop his game in the AHL and give Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen a bit less pressure to be 'the guy' in Buffalo. Because of this, one goalie who could make sense for them is Anthony Stolarz.
Anthony StolarzStolarz, 30, has been fantastic for the Panthers this season. In 26 games, the New Jersey native has a 15-7-2 record, a 2.03 GAA, and a .926 SV%. He has been one of the NHL's best backups and could be worth taking a shot on a short-term deal because of it.
Ryan Lomberg
While Ryan Lomberg is not a big-name player, he could be a solid addition to the Sabres' lineup. There's no question that Buffalo could use a bit more toughness and snot in their bottom six, and bringing in a player like Lomberg would give them that.
Ryan Lomberg Lomberg, 29, has appeared in 75 games this season with the Panthers, where he has five goals, seven points, 80 penalty minutes, and 175 hits.